Qualifications to Rent an Apartment

A successful rental applicant will prove his value as a tenant in his application.

Whether you’re moving into your first apartment, relocating or downsizing, qualifying to be approved as a tenant can be complicated. As of August 2012, when occupancy rates are at high levels, competition for available properties is more intense and requires applicants to prove their credit worthiness and to provide sound references. Make your application attractive to the corporation or landlord by being well-qualified and offering substantiation of your viability as a tenant.

Credit Score

Both corporate and individual landlords want proof of your credit record. You’ll be asked to provide your social security number, and you must agree to a credit report being run. If you know your score is low, offer a higher security deposit as assurance that you’ll be paying your rent. An explanation for your low score is appropriate when dealing with an individual landlord but may not go far if the application is in the hands of a corporation.

Rental History

Be prepared to provide the names and contact information for previous landlords. Alert them that you're applying for a new property and that they may be contacted. A written reference is helpful. If the property price is exceedingly higher than previous leases, give an explanation of how you can afford such a jump in price. Asking for a long lease assures the landlord that you plan to stay around and also alerts him to the fact that he’ll have a long-term tenant.

Proof of Monthly Income

Have income tax returns, pay stubs or other evidence of monthly income available as part of your application package. Bank statements for the past 4 months also serve to prove your worthiness. An outline of hard monthly expenses also can be included. If you have longevity at your job, include that information on your application.

References

Ask professional acquaintances, previous landlords, and people who have known you for a long period of time to write references that can be included with your application. Along with having them typewritten, request that the references be kept short.

Be Pet- and Smoke-Free

Your chances of securing a lease is greater if you don't have a pet. Landlords often frown on animals and the possibility of the damage they may do, even if you offer a security deposit that is non-refundable. Being a non-smoker also raises your standing in the eyes of a landlord. Let him know you're pet- and smoke-free, even if it’s not asked on the rental application.

Dress for Success

When you're interviewed by the landlord or rental agent, be presentable. Dress as if you're going on a job interview. Your appearance can make or break a deal because it alerts the landlord to your habits of neatness and cleanliness.

About the Author

Jann Seal is published in magazines throughout the country and is noted for her design and decor articles and celebrity *in-home* interviews. An English degree from the University of Maryland and extensive travels and relocations to other countries have added to her decorating insight.